1997 - 2001 Copperminds:

Devin Nowakowski
Lead Guitar, Vocals

Shaun Nowakowski
Bass, Vocals

Jim Olson
Violin, Guitar, Harmonica, Vocals

Jamie Vanadia
Drums, Percussion

Mix equal parts Dave Matthews, Freddy Jones, Bare Naked Ladies, shake with ice, serve to a large group of laughter.

"The Party Band with No Image"
What a great time this was. We had no style whatsoever, but what we lacked in style, we made up for in musicianship and laughter.

Devin, Shaun and Jamie formed the band in 1994 and I joined in 1997. I basically lied to get in, because they were so incredibly fun and great musicians taboot. I was the "color" player of the band, and ended up playing violin, guitar, harmonica and singing a bunch of songs.

As much as we wanted to be an original project, playing our own material, we were best known for the party atmosphere that was created by our friends, family and the venues themselves.

I've never been in a band that got along so well, honestly. We laughed at all of our own jokes, and truly had a great time playing music with each other.

We played the House of Blues, Tippling House, Glenview House, and Durty Nellies frequently. I think Mike Lovitto, Dan Williams, Geoff Lason, and the whole Glenview House crew came to every show. Always had a great turnout.

Whether Lovitto was tapping my microphone while I was singing, or we had 12 girls onstage singing "Boom Boom Boom Boom", it was exhilarating.

I will always look back on this band with fond memories. Especially building Jamie's drum booth in his basement and all the girls getting mad at Noreen dancing.

Why We Broke Up:
Definitely was a mutual decision. It unfortunately became a 'job'. Although we kept packing venues, we all had real day jobs and it got monotonous.

Where are they now?
Devin continues to make guest appearances with songwriters and is married with child.

Shaun also continues to play here and there and is married with child.

Jamie is now in a band called Six Gun Death Ray. We still talk from time to time.